1961 Trabant Universal vs. 1976 Triumph Dolomite
To start off, 1976 Triumph Dolomite is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Trabant Universal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Trabant Universal would be higher. At 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Triumph Dolomite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Triumph Dolomite (57 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1961 Trabant Universal. (20 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Triumph Dolomite should accelerate faster than 1961 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Triumph Dolomite weights approximately 274 kg more than 1961 Trabant Universal. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Triumph Dolomite is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1976 Triumph Dolomite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Trabant Universal, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1976 Triumph Dolomite (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Trabant Universal. (44 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1976 Triumph Dolomite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Trabant Universal | 1976 Triumph Dolomite | |
| Make | Trabant | Triumph |
| Model | Universal | Dolomite |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 44 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 666 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2460 mm |
